SSE generation flat at 5.2TWh

Renewables power sees increased wind production offset by hydro plunge

31/01/2013

SSE generated 5.2TWh of renewable electricity in the first nine months of 2012-13 as increased wind production was offset by reduced output from hydro stations.

The utility said in interim guidance released today that the slight dip from 5.3TWh in the period a year ago was the result of a 40% drop in hydro projects as catchment areas reverted to "just below normal levels" after a record 2011-12.

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New wind farm capacity helped to address the shortfall, with projects including the troubled 504MW Greater Gabbard and 367MW Walney contributing. Total onshore wind capacity in operation at SSE is 1431MW, with total offshore capacity 349MW.

SSE reiterated concerns about the UK's ongoing electricity market reform process, saying "ongoing uncertainty" is "continuing to have an impact on investment decision-making".

"SSE’s principal focus is to encourage legislators to ensure that the proposed Contract for Difference feed-in tariff for electricity from low-carbon sources is accompanied by counterparty arrangements and a payment model that are workable and do not have adverse financial consequences for electricity suppliers and their customers," the company said.

Adjusted profits before tax for the year to 31 March 2013 are expected to increase by around 4% to 5%, SSE added.